Summer on a Plate: Peach Caprese Salad with Purple Basil
Hello summer! This bold, vibrant Peach Caprese Salad with Purple Basil is a real eye-catcher. Deep purple basil paired with fresh, colorful peaches offers a fun twist on the classic caprese salad. It’s a sweet and savory combination that stands out from the usual. The presentation alone is impressive, but the flavors are what really shine.
The contrast of the purple basil against the peach creates a striking visual. It’s the kind of dish that makes people pause before digging in. And when they do, they’re in for a treat. The sweetness of the perfectly ripe summer peaches balances perfectly with the creamy mozzarella and aromatic basil.
Content may contain affiliate links (paid links). When you shop the links, we receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for supporting my small business.
Ingredients for Peach Caprese Salad with Purple Basil
Required Ingredients:
- Ripe fresh peaches
- Fresh mozzarella cheese
- Purple basil
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper
Choosing Peaches and Mozzarella:
Select peaches that yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a sweet aroma. For mozzarella, opt for fresh, high-quality balls packed in water for the best texture and flavor.
About Purple Basil:
Purple basil has a stronger, spicier flavor than its green counterpart. Its deep color adds visual interest, while its aromatic qualities enhance the overall taste of the salad.
Ingredients
Ripe fresh peaches
Fresh mozzarella cheese
Purple basil
Extra virgin olive oil
Balsamic glaze
Salt and pepper
Peach Caprese Salad with Purple Basil
Summer on a Plate: Peach Caprese Salad with Purple Basil
Ingredients
- 1 ea ripe peach
- 2 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 6 leaves purple basil (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp balsamic glaze
- 1 pinch salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the peach and using a sharp knife slice it thinly.
- On a salad plate, arrange 2 slices of fresh mozzarella in a circle.
- Place purple basil leaves over the mozzarella, allowing them to overhang slightly.
- Layer thin slices of peach on top of the basil and mozzarella.
- Drizzle a good quality extra virgin olive oil over the salad.
- Add a light drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Garnish by placing Purple basil leaves and/or flowers around and on the top of the salad. (optional)
- Serve immediately and enjoy your beautiful and delicious Peach Caprese Salad!
Serving Suggestions
Ideal Occasions: This Peach Caprese Salad shines at summer gatherings, outdoor brunches, and light dinner parties. It’s perfect for hot days when you want something refreshing yet satisfying.
Pairing Recommendations: Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light rosé or enjoy with one of our infused fruit and herb water recipes.
Presentation Tips: For a stunning presentation, use a white plate to make the colors pop. Garnish with a few extra basil leaves around the edges. For larger groups, create a beautiful platter arrangement, alternating peach and mozzarella slices in a circular pattern.
Variations and Tips
Substitutions: Try nectarines or apricots instead of yellow peaches. If purple basil is unavailable, use regular green basil or experiment with Thai basil for a different flavor profile. For a luxurious twist, replace mozzarella with creamy burrata or another fresh cheese of your choice.
Additional Ingredients: Consider adding prosciutto for a savory touch, or sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for extra crunch. You can also add fresh ripe tomatoes like heirloom tomatoes or cherry tomatoes to bring in more traditional caprese elements and add extra juiciness to the dish.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prep ingredients separately and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness. If needed, brush peach slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Tip: Basil doesn’t store well in the refrigerator. I find the best way to keep it fresh longer is to trim the stems and place them in a glass of water at room temperature, like a bouquet. Change the water every couple of days for best results.
This Peach Caprese Salad with Purple Basil is a delightful celebration of summer’s best flavors. It combines the sweetness of juicy peaches with creamy fresh mozzarella and aromatic fresh basil leaves, offering a unique twist on the classic caprese. So if you’re looking for a caprese salad without tomatoes, this recipe is a perfect choice. It’s a fresh, light alternative that captures the essence of summer while providing a new taste experience.
Perfect as an appetizer or light main course, this salad showcases the best of peach season. The key lies in using high-quality, simple ingredients – ripe peaches, soft mozzarella, and fragrant basil, elevated by good olive oil and a balsamic drizzle.
Whether served on a large platter or individual portions, this easy fresh salad is sure to impress. It’s a beautiful way to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce and create a memorable dish that captures the best flavors of summer. Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices!
So head to your farmer’s market or grocery store for some sweet peaches, and grab some purple basil from your garden. Your guests are going to love the sweet and savory flavors of this refreshing salad.
Enjoy!
